Jerry Rice returned to the place where he spent 16 seasons. The place where he laid the groundwork for winning an NFL MVP award and a Super Bowl MVP, and the place where he honed his skills to establish seemingly unreachable receiving records.
In an understated and heartfelt news conference Thursday in which he signed a ceremonial contract to retire as a 49er, Rice returned to the team's Santa Clara facility.
Looking very much like he did a decade ago, Rice entered a large white tent next to the team's locker room and signed his last football contract. After a brief introduction by co-owner John York, Rice took the lectern wearing a blue suit with the ring from Super Bowl XXIII, where he was named MVP, dangling from a chain around his neck.
With whistles and shouts emanating from the 49ers walkthrough practice in the background, Rice said, "It's a little difficult just being here today. I know I'm not going to be here for long. ... I used to be here all day."
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Rice to Retire With Niners
Home for a day, Rice bids adieu
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